Corporate Heelz eProfiler by CorporateHeelz

EDITION 1

SAMBA YONGA

Determined, Unhibited..

MAUREEN NKANDU Shattering The Glass Ceiling

FORBES

How To Fast Track Your Way Up The Corporate Ladder

BUDGETING TIPS For Small

Business Owners

KARISHMA PATEL-CHHAGAN

From Model to Corporate 1

Join the conversations on Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/corporateheelz/ To subscribe e-mail “subscribe” to editor@corporateheelz.com To advertise e-mail “advertise” to advertising@corporateheelz.com 2

WHO WE ARE..

The goal of Corporate Heelz is to enable inspiring, enlightening powerful connections. We aim to be a resource for women in the corporate world as well as women entrepreneurs. We aim to become the number one platform in Zambia and the region that encourages and nurtures women. Corporate Heelz is committed to creating and sustaining a supportive network online and offline, where all corporate women and women business owners can find answers and inspiration in their business endeavors. We are a platform for all enabling conversations, exchange of ideas will be through events, Facebook, Twitter and our website. We will endeavor to share resources that will help you grow our members. Members are encouraged to post experiences about their careers/businesses. In doing so, we will ignite conversations and share ideas, solutions and strategies. Thats the first step towards pooling resources and discovering ways to leverage our interations and relationships. Visit our page often, because we are always adding new content and great corporate and business resources. Corporate Heelz will focus on these strategic topics: Be Your Own Boss Grow Your Business Branding and Marketing Business Inspiration Cash Flow & Finance How to set up your own a business Women in Business (Success Stories) Cherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chats Recommendations from industry experts We believe that success isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overnight or a get rich quick scheme; there are no fast-food solutions. Growing oneself, upgrading our skills is an evolutionary process. You must grow yourself to grow in your career and in your business. Membership is FREE! We only need your intellectual contributions in order to create meaningful, inspiring connections. Join the conversation on Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/corporateheelz/

CONTENTS 2 CH Who we are 5 EDITORIAL 6 CH PROFILE: 8

Samba Yonga FORBES-How to fast track your way up the corporate ladder

9 POISED FOR LEADERSHIP

Maureen Nkandu

11CH MEMBER PROFILE Karishma

E H T ON VER CO Namutalala Tina Nakanyika Professional Model Based in South Africa. Follow her on twitter: @thefamoustina Dressed by Rumbi.

9 6

Patel-Chhagan & Lelemba Chitembo Phiri

12 PEARLS OF WISDOM Advise we loved

15 CH MEMBER PROFILE

Chola Lungu-Mutoni

17 CH on facebook Conversions on FB

19 Budgeting Tips

11 8

for small business owners.

SEDITORIAL Hello Ladies,

Welcome to our first ever CORPORATE HEELZ, ever since the formation of CORPORATE HEELZ on Blackberry Messenger then later on Facebook, I have been amazed, delighted, honoured, and humbled to dialogue with fantastically talented women in the CH network. Being able to connect and network with the CH women has helped me learn through their examples and share in a support system where we all help each other be better leaders and people.

I’m not new to women’s networks, i have toyed with the idea of forming my own network thta would focus entirely on empowering women in my age group, but there’s always that hint of fear taking on new things, forging a new path and leaping into the unknown and pushing yourself beyond what you think you might be capable of. I had been thinking of forming a networking group for a while but thought all the reasons why it wouldn’t work. From the day CH was started, I have received amazing support from all our members and I want to say I am truly thankful to all. CH was created on December 12th 2011 and has been growing from strength to strength. But I’m grateful that I’ve had good opportunities and leaders willing to coach me and help me learn. I have been around prolific Zambian women that have left me so inspired and in awe. One cardinal lesson I learnt throughout those sessions and meetings is that women need to NETWORK and CONNECT more, most of these prolific women had good support and good connections. That how the seed of CH seed was planted in my head. Through the years, it has grown and couldn’t be contained anymore. So for you reader, if you’ve been shelving an idea making excuses about how the world will receive it, I say, Keep believing in your dream, doesn’t matter if no one believes, what’s important is that you have enough faith to cover for all those who don’t believe in you. And you will achieve the impossible. I leave you with a some words from Dina Kaplan a women tech entrepreneur who says about MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION “I’d encourage young women to help other women they meet in business. It’s great karma, and you’ll feel good about yourself as well.” Join the conversation, on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/corporateheelz/. Share your light, share your experiences, it won’t cost you much but it will be priceless to someone else. Later this year, CH will host a number of kitchen dinners where we have conversations that matter to women. Look out for invitations on Facebook and through email. With love and support, Till next issue!

Janice.

janice@corporateheelz.com

Samba Yonga Determined, Inhibited...

“

In life we are constantly looking for exquisite moments, though we maybe unaware of it. In every sphere of our life we seek something that gives us a rush. I discovered in travelling along that it can only be achieved if you first realize the authenticity in your personality, relationships work and life. And as a result I have encountered some exquisite moments.”

Samba Yonga

Living life by her rules is what comes to mind everytime I think of Samba Yonga.

it was the same thing. I was told I would not be able to cut it in my chosen field.

She’s assertive and knowledgeable and yet rerore veniaes magnimene she’s not cocky and remains down to earth. dolup djfhgjf fjkgrii fkj. This trail blazer is one to watchorio as she already set up a successful business in Zambia.

What drives you?

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If you had to define yourself in 3 words, what would they be? SAMBA That is a query that really boggles my mind, can one really ever define themselves? Would it not be that the super ego will always dominate and try to give the most glowing accolades? Oh I realize I have gone over three words so let’s try this again: Determined, Uninhibited and Self deprecating All in one person, yes.

SAMBA Hmmm… tough question. Authenticity, if that makes any sense. In life we are constantly looking for exquisite moments, though we maybe unaware of it. In every sphere of our life we seek something that gives us a rush. I discovered in travelling along that it can only be achieved if you first realize the authenticity in your personality, relationships work and life. And as a result I have encountered some exquisite moments. What is the “BIG ISSUE”, how did you get it started?

SAMBA Big Issue Zambia is a franchise of the internationDid you ever see yourself as a person who al Big Issue magazine that was started by John would take the unbeaten path and create a Bird in the UK about 21 years ago. It works on the trail for people to follow? premise of wealth creation and advocacy for the unemployed. We publish a magazine quarSAMBA terly that is sold by recruited vendors from lower I think I have always taken the road less income brackets. They pocket 50% of the cover travelled. I was the same at school, cost me my price as their income. It works on the premise of popularity at times. When I decided to take up wealth creation and advocacy for the my career unemployed. We publish a magazine quarterly

that is sold by recruited vendors from lower income brackets. They pocket 50% of the cover price as their income. The magazine is also a social development advocacy tool that discusses issues of development and opportunity. In Zambia we launched about 5 years ago, I was head hunted by a combined team of London office and the original initiator of the project to start it up. The concept fired me up and immediately jumped on board and it’s been a wonderful growth process since then, personally and professionally. What’s your take on entrepreneurship in Zambia?

knowledge to be gained. We need to channel this knowledge in all areas of development: education, business, government, personal etc and hold ourselves accountable to a principle that aims to propel rather slow down our lives. If you had to change anything about your life, what would it be? SAMBA Nothing at all. What have been the highlights of your career or business so far?

SAMBA Hmmm… this is the self deprecating part. SAMBA Everyday I learn something new about my work The issue of entrepreneurship is got to do with and for me that is a highlight. The fact that I product, market and accessibility. There is a hunger for knowledge is a highlight. It means I huge potential for Zambians to create products am constantly looking to improve myself and that suit the Zambian market but there is a need external validations are just that, external. But to understand the market, its needs and there have been many great tailor products and services that moments and most of them I share will be suitable for the public. No with many others. I am yet to “I think I have matter whether the market is have the ‘wowser’ of a always taken the road big or small. If you make moment or maybe I already lesstraveled. I was the same at desirable enough product, have and I don’t remember school. Cost me my popularity atit will break all barriers, times. When I decided to take upmy it… at the end of the day all eventually. You don’t just that remains is the career it was the same thing. bring a product to the enrichment of the soul. I was told I would not be able to market and dump it on cut it in my chosen field. I wondered the market, you need to What worldwide business teach a public what they the same but thealternative was a trends do you think have need. Study the gap and fill deathsentence so I stuck with it been favourable to you or it in. For example I never buy and I have never regretted maybe favourable to clothes in boutiques because I Zambians? my decision.” just never find anything I like and SAMBA add to that and absolute distaste Well working in Africa one has to for shopping. It drives me nuts. But I met remember we are constantly catching up this guy who collects vintage clothes and is a with the rest of world, we have become much stylist for ladies in Lusaka, I wanted to buy the better and quicker at it and working in media whole shop. His attention to detail and that helps. For example clients are more understanding of my taste made me receptive to information and communication immediately respond to his marketing gimmicks technologies and how it enhances their work and I fell for it, hook, line and sinker. Now that is and that being a part of my profession, I use it to what entrepreneurship should like. expand my work base. Empowerment, what form do you think it has taken in Zambia?

What do you do for fun/relaxtion? Any tips you can share?

SAMBA Knowledge. Empowerment is essentially knowledge. Awareness of your environment, how it enhances or negates your life. What you can do to alter the circumstances or improve them. This principle cuts across everything whether it’s buying bread or fighting for legislature. It’s all about the knowledge we acquire and I think in Zambia there is still a lot of

SAMBA For fun I love to dance (though I don’t do it as often, except with my kids), I love travelling, I love disappearing into a book, experiencing beautiful architectural sites, watching a very very very good movie, and also engaging with whacky minds. I retreat within myself and just listen to the nothingness that clears my head. CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Forbes

How To Fast Track Your Way Up The Corporate Ladder You may have to take a more roundabout path to get to the top today but if you want to arrive quickly, there are a few things you can do. Here’s what the experts suggest. Make a plan. “Too many people bounce through their career like a pinball in a pinball game, but in order to achieve your full potential, every person needs a plan—some sort of roadmap or blueprint,” says Ford Myers, a career coach and author of Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring. “A smart person will have a long-term career plan, which focuses on where they want to arrive at the pinnacle of their career, as well as the interim steps they’ll need to take in order to get there.” Make adjustments as you go, but implement the plan early on in your career. Get an education. “Get the best possible education and training you can, as early as you can,” Myers suggests. “No matter what has changed, there is still no replacement for getting a head start with a great education.”

There is no replacement for hard work and smart work.” Dream beyond the job description. Don’t let yourself be limited by what you are officially assigned to do. This does not mean ignoring present responsibilities; it means working beyond achievements that are obvious or expected. Develop an “I will do whatever it takes to get the job done” attitude. “I think your work attitude is just as important as your work aptitude,” Teach says. Most people work hard, but if you’re the one with the can-do attitude, your supervisor will certainly recognize and appreciate it.

Become a resource. Continue building your own skill and knowledge outside the job, Myers says. “Keep growing your expert status and credibility in your field, not just within your company.” Become an industry Network. expert, Lewis adds. “Read, study, follow industry “Use all your resources to get into the corporate leaders on social media outlets, and attend world,” Myers says. “Leverage your network to industry conferences. This helps you grow get in at the best possible starting point.” beyond your job to know the industry and others Networking doesn’t stop once you have the in it.” These relationships can open up job. “The more people you know and who tremendous possibilities for mentoring and know you, and like you, the better,” adds Andy advancement. Teach, a 30-year corporate veteran. Dress for success. Work hard. Don’t look at how your peers are dressed; look at “Don’t just put in your hours,” Myers says. “Do how the top executives are dressed. Dress for the more than most people, and work harder and position you want, not the one you have, Teach longer.” Treat everything with urgency and says. volunteer for high-visibility projects. Always seek to contribute more, and be known as the go-to Keep an ongoing success file. person or the get-it-done person, he adds. Record and file all of your achievements, espe“Arrive earlier and leave later. cially those that align with broader company priorities, 8 CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

very passionate and focused about journalism, especially broadcasting. I also love politics. My Dad, a veteran journalist, is Lala/Bisa from Serenje and my late mum was Tumbuka. I began my schooling in Kenya and have very fond memories and attachment to that country. I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth and I thank God for that. I was privileged in that I had a good comfortable home, good education and a good life. I have maintained this. But I have not been oblivious to the many realities and challenges around me and am very conscientious.

“

POSIED FOR LEADERSHIP Maureen Nkandu graced our screens every night for many years. She and many other women I encountered later in my life set the stage for my “can-do” attitude. She showed me that you can be beautiful and powerful all at the same time. We feature Maureen in our inaugural edition of the CH profiler. In Zambia, we hear tidbits of you here and there, where have you been? Pity you’ve heard tit-bits about where I’ve been, because I have had an illustrious and highly publicised career. But here it is again. I began my broadcasting career at ZNBC, then moved on to BOP Television in South Africa; spent several years after that in Europe receiving specialist training in Radio and TV and doing my Masters Degree in Journalism at the University of Wales; returned to South Africa and joined SABC News for 4 years; moved on BBC World Service Radio in London for about five years, and am now with the United Nations Development Programme in Johannesburg. You were in hundreds of thousands of homes for years, so many of us had an opinion of who you are because we felt we “knew” you. Can YOU tell us briefly who Maureen is? Maureen is a Zambian, born and bred in Lusaka and

Mind you, I do not measure success as being western educated and in a high position or running a good business. I have high regard for our traditional values and for the not-so educated women, who I believe also get a raw deal by those who misunderstand our cultural norms and use them exploitatively to keep women and girls sublime.

”

I help those less fortunate than myself, especially children and young girls in Zambia through resources, empowerment and mentorship. I don’t see any reason to publicize my charity work. I do it to help and not to show others. I am intelligent, beautiful; educated; confident and hardworking; courageous, loving, well travelled, honest; a bit naughty; very stubborn (I am the Shrew you cannot tame); highly skilled and successful; I am self-made and very ambitious. I do not like laziness and lies. I am very private and do not talk a lot about my children and personal life. I have very very few close friends and I keep them dear. I am a perfectionist and utterly dislike mediocrity and incompetence. My philosophy is “what’s worth doing is worth doing well” and I have lived by that all my life. You were a prolific figure in a tie when women weren’t being taken seriously; please share your experiences during that area. Were a prolific figure? I’d like to believe I still am. Women still aren’t taken seriously the world over. The reasons are varied. In Zambia it’s all about how we are socialized. Women are expected to be softer, less ambitious, less successful and dependant on their men folk. Obviously that’s changing and alot of women are doing extremely well, be they in a marriage, relationship or own their own. What I do not agree with is the notion that a woman can only be successful in her career or business if she is single. This is not true. I know a number of women who have achieved great heights because they have had a lot of support from their partners or

husbands. The same applies to men who have done well. There’s usually a powerful feminine force behind them. Mind you, I do not measure success as being western educated and in a high position or running a good business. I have high regard for our traditional values and for the not-so educated women, who I believe also get a raw deal by those who misunderstand our cultural norms and use them exploitatively to keep women and girls sublime. Coming back to how things were when I was a young, budding ambitious journalist in Zambia, an actual physical vibration. Over time, that word or phrase produces a positive effect and it gives one it was really tough. I rose to phenomenal fame when I was only 18. I was innocent and naïve. A lot of men tried to advantage of me. To start with, there was a lot of sexual harassment at ZNBC but our society then was not like it is now; one could not speak out openly about it or even report the perpetrators. My career sometimes suffered as a result of it. Generally I was seen as a sex symbol and not much attention paid to my intellectual capabilities or my skill and talent. This changed as I grew older because I mastered how to stamp my authority and ensure that I was respected for what I knew and could do and not just for what I looked like. When one works hard and does well, the whole world sees it, regardless of how much the ignoramuses try to sabotage it. Mind you, it’s not only men that try to bring one down, the women do it to themselves as well, mainly out of silly, petty jealousy. What I have done and achieved in my career and personal life has earned me global respect and encouraged to do even better.

Who do you admire professionally? Umm…professional people! Do you have any businesses you own or run? What’s this got to do with it? Is this how you measure success? How do you balance being a mother and a career woman?

What was your mantra back then? Has it changed over the years?

It’s very hard, but I do it well because I am extremely focused and disciplined. I follow a strict routine. Being a perfectionist and highly organized has its challengWell my understanding of a mantra is that it is a Sanskrit word or phrase that is repeated and used in es but my children are very smart and well trained. I many spiritual practices. Saying any word produces travel a lot, but my three lovely offspring were born into that lifestyle and have adjusted well. It helps strength. Mine? “My God Is Jehovah”. This has and that they are independent and responsible because will always be my Mantra. while I do not neglect them, I am also able to focus on my work and do well. But when I am with them, What tools or resources have you used that have I make sure our time is really worthwhile by doing a been crucial to your success? lot of simple but fun things together. We hold a famMy faith is absolutely crucial. I cannot go about my ily meeting once a month to discuss key issues, plan day without praise and worship for God’s guidance; the future and all else. Almost like an office set up. We exercise; good diet; sufficient sleep; good hygiene; take turns in chairing the meeting and also in taking a lot of reading and positive mind. I came out of a minutes, etc. This way, I am empowering my children to fit in expertly in the corporate world, where they will very bad acrimonious marriage where my confidence and self-esteem almost took a nose-dive, but be well versed with negotiation skills, putting forth their I quickly reminded myself of the bigger person that I ideas, thinking am. I now live a much fulfilled positive life, which has critically and being assertive. It works very well and helps me run my home. seen me score numerous successes. What has been your most memorable career move? Do you ever think you will come back home? Every move has been memorable and I believe the best is yet to come.

I go to Zambia almost every month, either for work or to spend time with family. But Oh yes, I will come back home for good. No doubt about that. And

CHMEMBER PROFILE From Mode to Sales Guru Karishma was once Miss Tourism Zambia 2007 and worked in the Zambian fashion industry for 2 Years. Karishma has since joined the high paced, ever changing world of information technology and works as regional sales co-ordinator at AfriConnect. Job experience I worked as sales exec in an jewellery store for two year. Through networking, I was told of a job at realtime and was hired as assistant to the sales and marketing director. I had to go through 2 interviews before I was offered the job. Making the move from Fashion to IT. I was getting into a field I have never worked before but I was confident I could Karishma Patel-Chhagan learn the ropes real quick. As I got to know With Husband Chetan Chhagan the business, I approached the director of sales for an opportunity to sale and earn commission and the rest is history. I later moved to AfriConnect (iConnect) where I’m now in charge (on the sales side of things) of the regional offices and recently was given the role of handling a new product we launched under the iConnect product portfolio. It exciting times for me and I honestly think if I hadn’t had the courage and push to ask for the commission based sales job, I wouldn’t be where I am today. What role do you think fashion plays in a corporate women’s life? Fashion will always play an important role in my life. Power suits and heels are my favourite way of boosting confidence. I believe that you have to dress for the role you want in the future. If you wear overalls, you will definitely not get noticed in the corporate world…dress to impress that what I say. Defining moment this past year Two defining moments this year - My marriage, I married my best friend recently. And recently I had a chance to chat with one of the directors at Vodacom south Africa during in sales conference last month(April), he told me his life story about how he has risen through the ranks to get to where he is now and when I asked what his secret recipe for success was he said to me…”all you have to do is know your job inside out, and believe that you can do anything.” His words reaffirmed the opportunity I ceased at realtime, I got to know the job and believed I could sell and that was the recipe to my success as well! He was a physical representation of what I was trying to achieve and that gave me a renewed sense of hope.

INVESTMENT ADVISE: WHEN OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Lelemba Chitembo Phiri

Lelemba Chitembo Phiri’s session sparked a good conversation for all present. Many of us are talking investment, she left us all fired up. Earlier I came across an article titled “WHEN OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS”. This article speaks in detail about how many of us are too afraid to take the plunge when it comes to investment. “Many people fail financially not because they take too much risk with their money, but because they take too little of it.” writes renowned financial advisor Ric Adelman. That’s not to say that you give all your life’s savings to the next businessman/woman who offers an attractive proposition, but when potential success outweighs potential risk, you could have an idea worth investing in.  In the book The Warren Buffet way, it delves into Buffet’s success. Apparently, one of Buffet’s business success criteria comes from him seeking businesses whose product or service will be in constant and growing demand. There’s OPPORTUNITY in our everyday lives for investment and wealth creation.....looking forward to hearing success stories from all of you phenomenal women!

Lelemba Chitembo Phiri

Pearls Of Wisdom Advice we loved!

“Focus. Too often, and because they are very opportunistic, young businesses chase too many options, too many features, too many channels. “And because most often they are operating with limited resources, they can’t do all of those things well enough to rise above the competition and sustain that competitive advantage. It’s far better to pursue one, focused opportunity and execute exceptionally than to do too many things ordinarily.

have had numerous previous experiences that others would see as ‘failures’ businesses that didn’t succeed, careers that were stalled. Successful entrepreneurs view their past as learning experiences. They build on their past instead of being buried by it. “As for differences between male and female entrepreneurs, one is that women often feel they need to be perfect to move

Chris Shipley, CEO, Guidewire Group, Inc

forward, while men are typically far more confident and don’t hold themselves to a standard of perfection. Women feel like they can succeed only if they do ALL their homework first.

“I speak to MBA classes as well as entrepreneurs’ groups all the time, and a key piece of advice I give is always the same. The most important attribute for an entrepreneur is to ‘redefine failure.’ Very successful entrepreneurs usually

“If a woman wants to start a business, she’ll often feel she has to do months or years of planning, start small. Men often think bigger and move faster. Women need – and deserve –more of that confidence”.

“That advice is universal, regardless of the gender, age, or market of the entrepreneur”.

Rhonda Abrams, ‘USA Today’ Small Business Columnist & President, PlanningShop “Research, research, research. Know your market inside and out, but at the end of the day-go with your gut. Trust your instincts, and you actually can make anything possible.

“Be passionate about what you do. If you’re investing this much of your life into it, make sure it’s worth the effort and it’s something you’re proud of.

“However, always stay grounded. You will inevitably have some humbling moments (like mine: speaking to a group of four people on “Be willing to make sacrifices in the early days. a rainy Saturday in a basement of the hotel!), It will come in the form of free time, money and but never be “too good for” anything as you’re your social life. But once you have your feet on building your business”. solid ground, it all evens out. Carley Roney, Editor in Chief TheKnot.com & “Know when to divide and conquer. You have Co-founder XO Group Inc to be willing to let go and trust your business partners. Unfortunately you can’t do everything, and it certainly won’t be efficient or effective if you do.

SAMBA YONGA CONTINUED what inspired you to do what you do and how your parents/environment shaped you into who you are today? SAMBA I would not say I am a product of my environment. I am very much a self made personality. All the life decisions I took were rejected, not because the people around me did not believe in me but because they wanted to protect me from disappoint they were sure I would encounter. I have encountered some disappointment but I have encountered much more fulfilment and benefit. I studied journalism and channelled my love for telling stories through many platforms. Through this I have met many great people and been part of great movements. I have travelled, experienced and learnt what it is to be a part of humanity and for that reason I am more determined to play my part in the enhancement of mankind. Now if I had been an accountant, I would be no where near this path of self actualisation and continued

commitment to serve humanity and my fellow citizens. Samba Yonga has been a journalist for ten years working in both electronic and print media. In the last five years she has been Regional Coordinator for street paper network in Africa and Editor of Big Issue Zambia. She is also managing consultant for various media campaigns in Zambia and the region.

Look out for Sambaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s column RSVP in the next edition of CH profiler

ALIVE TOLIFE

CHMEMBER PROFILE

CHOLA LUNGU-MUTONI The grand daughter of one of Zambia’s most prolific freedom fighters, Chola is blessed with a rich heritage that has been the family’s very proud legacy handed over by her late grand dad. Daughter of Mr. Charles Benson Maposa Lungu and Ms. Chilufya Kapwepwe, Chola doesn’t allow herself to be the shadow of her family’s name but endeavours to forge her own path. Determined to make her own footprints in the sand. Chola has a company called “Katuntulu Edutainments ” . Edutainment – we aim to educate and entertain. Katuntulu which is the color “yellow” in a Zambian language, Bemba means “to be ALIVE!!!!!!” It is also a Zambian game, which symbolizes our progressive path in life, the search from the unknown to the known, it is about discovery, suspense, finding our identity and celebrating the journey.” “I am the last born in a family of three, I have one brother Mwalimu Lungu and one sister Chandiona Lungu, they are twins. The name Chola, is given to a child born after twins. My father has worked for Copperbelt University for the last 30yrs and is retiring this year. He is a soft spoken man, who values education and family every much. He once told me the crowd is not always right and if you believe in something go for it, even if you have to do it alone. He has belonged to the same congregation (UCZ) for the same number of years and believes loyalty is very important. My mother is a retired politician, diplomat and midwife, she is not shy and is very hard working. She is currently running an NGO in the northern province called “Imiti Ikula Empanga”. She empowers communities by showing them how to grow crops that do not require fertilizer. Her organization teaches other entrepreneurial skills like bee keeping and how to make decorations from monkey balls which grow wildly in the bush.

province and my mother is from Chinsali the northern province. I have spent time in both villages and looking back now I value the time spent there learning not only the languages but the way of life, the culture, the beliefs and the traditions. At the end of our teens into early adulthood our parents extended the travel and exposure by allowing us to visit countries around Zambia and out of Africa. Traveling with either one of the twins was exciting and I always felt safe because they have always “kept an eye on me”. I was raised by many people, my mother and her sisters still influence me today. The former Deputy Finance Minister Chileshe Kapwepwe’s house is like Big Mama’s house, that’s where hold many family meetings and functions. My father’s late brother former Army Commander Lt. Gen Hanniah Lungu taught me discipline and boldness is a must and that people need to earn your trust. CH: Tell us about your business.

Katuntulu is an organization that specializes in hosting interactive empowerment workshops and events. We also focus on teaching general achieve success. We aim to enrich the mind, On school holidays we were sent away from body and soul. This year our focus is on running home, this was either at my mum’s sister’s house workshops in Zambian traditions, songs, dance or my dad’s brother’s house. When we got and games. older we were sent to the village on holidays, my father is from Peatuke in the eastern

Through such activities participants will learn about Zambia’s rich languages, traditional practices and history. We will provide a fun way for participants to discover what it means to be Zambian. CH: Why Katuntulu? It’s an innovative business idea. How did you “birth” the idea? Katuntulu was conceived a few years ago and lived in my head till I dared to “birth” it in April 2011. I lived outside Zambia for 7 years, I was based in Namibia, I went to University of Namibia for 2 years then went to Rhodes university in Grahamstown , South Africa. During those years I also travelled to other countries in and out of Africa. With every visit I realized although all humans are made by God, the geographical location of an individual has a great influence on a person’s beliefs and way of life. I become very interested in what influenced people’s behavior, style, beliefs and views. Then I looked inwards and realized how much mybeliefs had been affected by exposure to other African countries and the west. When I moved back to Zambia I desperately wanted to reclaim my “Zambianess “ so I started studying people around me, especially the women. I realized many women my age where also a mixed masala, a mixture of local and international cultures and it wasn’t necessarily a bad thing but could be confusing at times. And so I created a platform for women to come and discuss anything from business, wealth, fashion, health, relationships and most importantly our tradition (Intambi). CH: Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?  Being a business owner is very empowering and enriching, but it also has it challenges. I’m always learning. It takes time to build a name, a brand and to get people to support and believe in what you’re doing. It is however important to “own” something, to be passionate about it and to see it to fruition, especially if it will enrich and empower other human beings as well.

She is an intelligent well read and incredible teacher. She is not scared to try new things, she has taught me that only I can limit my success and there is no harm in trying out something new. Because of her I dare to dream, to challenge myself and to take risks. I watch her and I am amazed every single time we work on a project. CH: What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?  I was taught early in life by my mother, to fear no one but God and respect everyone. My greatest professional accomplishment was starting katuntulu Edutainments. I prayed about it and then got a South African company to sponsor the first 2 events. I walked into an office without an appointment and asked for it and I got it. I was so proud of myself and thankful to God. CH: What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?  You must take risks and there is no failure, expect from no longer trying! CH: What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?  I have learnt that networking is very important and it can get you places. CH: What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?  Katuntulu has been mobile for a year, we have a location in New Kasama where we hope to open a cultural village. I would like to preserve Zambia’s history and indigenous knowledge, so I’m working on funding and getting the right partners. CH: How does being a mom impact on your business?

Apart from being a mom, I work full time at an international NGO and I also run Katuntulu. My children come first, and I realized that children cannot and should not be raised by an individual. I thank God for grandmothers and nannies. These extra hands help me make sure the boys CH: What or who has been your greatest are well fed, clean and happy. So my business influence in your business and why?  hasn’t suffered much because I became a My greatest influence is Mulenga Kapwewpwe, mom, the extra cash I earn is used to buy things to make their lives more comfortable. she is my friend, confider, mentor and my mother’s youngest sister. She has cheered me on and “directed” every workshop I have held.

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CHer’s share their monday morning routines that “perk up” strategies for mornings.

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Abigail C - I make sure I do some work sunday afternoon or sunday night so that the monday blues are not so severe. This is my strategy and it works for me.

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Lelemba C.P I actually love Mondays (ducking the missiles from Monday haters LOL) its because I really love my work and there is only so much ‘down-time’ I can take (my mind starts craving the high-level stimulation that work provides by Sunday lunch time)! LOL! So Monday morning is usually a “Yes!! Lets get this machine started and see what we can get done this week” kind of morning for me.

some how gets wasted! Its like it tells me that play time is over(after weekend) and its now time to get back to serious business.

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Yvonne C C - Huge mug of green tea! Gives me the uummmph and makes me feel like i have cleansed all the weekend toxins:-).

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Matauka Muliokela - “ I finally found time to go through most of the articles on venturing into a business… I have always thought I would suck at running my own enterprise BUT Ladies… watch this space!! I look forwards to reading ” more and more on how to kick start, coz I think I can move this train!! Thanks J Chola L. M - Dress up really well, look good, smell good and I’ll feel good:).” and all YOU beautiful & powerful ladies for your Muyaka N - “ For me monday is a must ideas and sharing your dress real good day. I love the ‘busy’ feeling experiences. Am still that also comes with it and in most cases if wowed!! my monday is dull then the whole week

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FORBES - HOW TO FAST TRACK YOUR WAY UP THE CORPORATE LADDER - CONTINUED Lewis says. “Find ways to keep your boss and others informed of these achievements so you are recognized increasingly as someone leading company success beyond your own responsibilities. This list is especially helpful at annual review time.” “Bosses like measurable, quantifiable results,” Myers adds. “If you can’t provide that in your review, you’re just another employee begging for a raise or promotion.”

Teach says. “If you are seen as a team player and can work well with others, this will definitely help your career.” Lewis adds, “The ability to win friends and influence others is a skill needed increasingly as you move up in any organization.”

Express appreciation “This sounds so simple, but I’m amazed how seldom junior professionals articulate their gratitude for the opportunities and guidance extended to them by more senior leaders,” Lewis says. “I learned the value of this one time when I saw our CEO walking through the atrium at Be an initiator, not just an executor. lunch. He did not know me but I thanked him for “I believe that 90% of employees are executors, his weekly voicemails that I knew he intended to but it is the other 10% who initiate, who do be informative and encouraging to the things that they are not asked to do, who workforce. Not 30 minutes later my boss told me move up the ladder the quickest,” Teach says. the CEO had asked what my name was, and I realized my simple gesture of appreciation had Be a team player left a positive impression. From that point forward Supervisors look very carefully at how the CEO called me by name.” employees work with the rest of the department and other departments,

Budgeting Tips For Small Business Owners If your fiscal year parallels your wall calendar, then you made it through Q-1 or as you may formally call it, the first quarter. Perhaps you’re feeling optimistic about the goals you’ll accomplish this year, or are concerned about your revenue goals for the second quarter. It’s best to look at where you’ve been to figure out a great strategy for where you are going next. Here are four things you can immediately do to make the most of the remaining three quarters of this year in your small business.

consider is five percent of your figures.

2. Track Your Business Development Time If you’re like most movers and shakers in small business, then you’ve spent a great deal of time this fiscal year building relationships, following up on leads, and hopefully closing contracts and sales. Remember to add up the time you’re spending on business development and use that number as a projection in your budget. Keep a daily timesheet to help you record how you’re spending your time on this criti1. Stick to your budget cal marketing activity. Over the next three quarters, think about how much work you Not only do you need to stick to your budget, but you need to track your budget can actually complete in addition to your against what you actually spend each quar- business development activities. ter. It is so important to prevent cost overruns 3. Track in Black, Red…. And Gray before they occur. In fact, you should ask yourself Why three times, before making a Not only must you review your budget for purchase that is not in your budget. revenue and expenses, but also, you must Keeping the numbers in your head is easy track the actual numbers. If you’re using a when you have one project, but not when basic spreadsheet, include an actuals you have many. Invoicing and accounts column next to your budget column so that payable can easily become overwhelming. you can record what you’re really spending If you’re seeing success then add a stretch versus what you budgeted as the year goal to your budget. A good stretch goal to progresses. Be sure not to overlook the 19

obvious growing pains associated with any business such as rework, rush fees from your vendors, process hiccups, emergency breakdowns of equipment, etc. In the area of marketing, remember that you have to spend to create opportunities to sell. This means that there should be monthly spending activity for marketing.

What is the standard profit margin?

3. Do Your Homework If you’re new to budgeting, or are jumping back into business, the first place to start is within your own network. Begin creating trusting relationships with other professionals in your industry. This will allow you to talk with them about how they budget without revealing what you might consider trade secrets. You need the right answers, and ones that are based on data to manage your business.

About the author: Akia T. Garnett, MBA is a speaker, columnist for Minority Business Entrepreneur Magazine and CEO of Brandbuilder. She is an adjunct professor of business, marketing and consumer behavior at Trinity University of Washington, DC, and Co-Author of Seen and Sustained: Best Practices in Communication that Increase the Visibility of Small and Diverse Businesses. Akia helps small business owners create, cast and complete vision and mission mapping exercises for their professional and personal brands.

4. Unless You’re A Magician, Leave the Rabbit Tricks Alone Moving into the second quarter of your fiscal year can be a bit scary if you didn’t start off with a budget. The opportunity is now for getting your arms around your company’s financial performance. You’ll need to plan Your labor will often be a direct cost for revenues and expenses to better expense. Track your expenses closely and understand what opportunities to pursue this to think about what it takes to create and year. You’ll want to know how to price them, deliver specific products and services to and most importantly you’ll get clear about your clients. You will also need to track how many opportunities you must win to turn your indirect costs, which support the a profit. When setting objectives, there is no entire business as a whole including admin, magic wand to earn greater profits. Through marketing and your professional services consistent efforts you’ll do three things; like accounting and legal support. Likewise, increase revenue, fulfil your company’s be sure you understand the difference mission and move closer to turning a profit. between fixed and variable costs so that as you grow, you know how to budget Do you have any tips for establishing a expenses that will increase and decrease budget once the business year has started? with scale. Please share your thoughts.

You need to know the following:

How much your products or services cost in the competitive marketplace?

How much companies like yours pay in expenses on average to operate weekly, monthly and annually?

What is the standard timeline for delivering similar products and services?

How much each supply chain component costs in similar companies in time and money?

MAUREEN NKANDU - POSIED FOR LEADERSHIP CONTINUED when I do, it will not be a small move. Watch this space! What do you do in your spare time? Valuable time with my partner and the children. Luckily he and I have very similar interests- politics, international relations, world history, cooking, medieval movies, the English Premier League and travelling. I also enjoy gardening, interior décor, doing crossword puzzles and bird watching, and tending to our full-breed Maltese. One thing I really do not like is shopping. I go into a store, very certain of what I want, buy it and get out. Shopping, even for groceries stresses me. Share your favorite quotes: • “He who kneels before God, can stand before anyone.” • “Tabanyela mumpoto pakuya” • “Munshebwa, aile namafi kubuko” • “Mwikalapatalele, mwine apatalalika”

Maureen has since been appointed Head of Communication the NEPAD Agency of the African Union in April 2012. CH wishes Maureen all the best in her new role and we have no doubt she will excel in the role!

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SHOULD BE THOUGHT OF AS A

CONTRIBUTION TO A COMPEX SYMBOL WHICH IS THE BRAND IMAGE.” -David Ogilvy

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